Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Checking In: My First 11 Days as a Mom

Baby Essley (you can read her introduction here) is 11 days old today. 11 days sounds like nothing, but I honestly can't put into words how much she's changed in that period of time. I can't put into words how much I've changed either. We've all gotten to know each other, and we've already learned so much. Everyday is an adventure, with new experiences, adorable little "firsts," and new sets of challenges. Everyone says that your heart swells with a new baby, and that you feel a love that you never knew you could feel. Well, it's true. Essley is our mini soul mate. She's the most magical thing that has ever happened to us. We are so in love with her. It's the coolest thing ever guys. It really is.

Taking some time off to just be together has allowed for Robbie and me to really be able to connect with this new little being on so many different levels. This is truly the first time ever that I've really taken time off work, and although it feels a little strange, I am so very grateful that I'm able to do so. (I can't thank my guest posters enough; please continue to support them by showing them comment love and visiting their blogs!) Robbie leaves for winter tour in less than three weeks and won't be home much until the end of April. It's a little scary to think about, and I still haven't figured out how I'll be able to work and take care of Essley by myself while he's away. In the meantime though, we're grateful for the time we have together, and we're trusting that we'll figure out the rest as it comes.

I'm much less tired than when I checked in last week, but I still feel like my brain isn't operating that well. I really want to share my birth experience with you guys, but it was so intense that I feel like it's going to take a while to get to a place where I can write about it with the zest it deserves. I have some more great guest posts lined up for the next week or so, and I'll continue to check in as well. I appreciate you all so much, and appreciate you continuing to read Bubby and Bean while I'm "away."

Mel, I wanted to tell you she is absolutely beautiful! I am so happy for you guys.

I just went back to work myself last week, I work from home every day. It's tough! I thought it would be easier. I actually just hired a nice gal from the neighborhood to come over & help out with my son so I can work during the day. It was really hard at first not being the one to hold him constantly, but it's getting easier. Plus, it's good for him to be social with someone besides mommy! Since I'm nursing him, I can just take breaks every couple of hours & cuddle up & nurse. So far it's all working out really well. :)

Congrats, she is so adorable and it's good to hear you're all doing well! I also hope you enjoy your time together. I know how you feel about the brain not functioning thing though lol. My son is 2 weeks old as of yesterday and physically I feel much better than last week but omg my brain feels like mush lol. ;P

she is just so sweet. im so glad you both have been able to have this time off together as a family in the very beginning. i know its going to be hard when robbie leaves, but i know you can do it! love you!